Key takeaways
- In the eighth month, your baby is about 40–43 cm — the size of a coconut.
- Brain growth accelerates is a key milestone this month.
- Common symptoms include pelvic pressure and rib discomfort.
- This month's key check: growth scan.
In the eighth month (weeks 29–32), your baby is gaining weight steadily and usually settles into a head-down position. About the size of a coconut (40–43 cm), your baby is getting ready for birth.
How big is the baby in the eighth month?
Your baby is about 40–43 cm, roughly the size of a coconut.
What is developing this month?
Key milestones in the eighth month include:
- Brain growth accelerates
- Bones harden
- Steady weight gain
- Usually turns head-down
What symptoms can you expect in the eighth month?
Every pregnancy is different, but common symptoms this month include:
- Pelvic pressure
- Rib discomfort
- Swelling
- More frequent Braxton Hicks
What should you do this month?
- Keep up your daily kick counts
- Rest, elevate your feet and stay hydrated
- Begin planning your birth plan and hospital bag
- Keep monitoring your blood pressure and attend your growth scan
Which tests or scans are done in the eighth month?
Growth and wellbeing checks are the focus this month.
- A growth scan (around 32 weeks) to check your baby's size, the fluid around it, and position
- Haemoglobin, and routine blood pressure and urine checks
- A check of your baby's position (presentation)